We advise businesses on the legal and commercial aspects of technology, from early-stage innovation through to complex implementations, outsourcing and large-scale transformation.
Our technology practice is led by Laura Trapnell and Louise Thompson, bringing together extensive experience in technology contracting and a strong understanding of the regulatory landscape shaping how technology and digital infrastructure are developed, delivered and used.
We work closely with clients to ensure their technology arrangements are robust, scalable and aligned with their commercial objectives.
Our Expertise
Technology Projects, Infrastructure & Transformation
We support organisations delivering complex technology projects and operating critical technology infrastructure, including:
- Cloud infrastructure and high-performance computing (HPC) arrangements
- Data centre colocation and hyperscale hosting agreements
- Large-scale system procurements and transformation programmes
- Vendor selection and multi-supplier environments
- Procurement and supply chain contracts for hardware and facilities
We work alongside internal teams to anticipate issues early and ensure successful delivery.
Technology Contracts
We advise on a wide range of technology-driven commercial agreements, including:
- IT outsourcing and managed services
- Software development and implementation agreements
- Service level agreements (SLAs) for compute, storage and connectivity
- Technology supply and integration contracts
- Collaboration and partnership arrangements
- SaaS, PaaS and cloud-based service agreements
Our approach is practical and commercially focused, helping clients structure arrangements that deliver long-term value.
AI & Emerging Technologies
We advise organisations developing, procuring and deploying artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. Our work includes:
- Contracts for the supply and procurement of AI
- AI governance frameworks and internal policies
- Use of data within AI systems and compute environments
- Regulatory compliance
We help clients both supply and adopt innovative technologies confidently.
Digital Regulation
We advise on the increasingly complex regulatory environment affecting technology and infrastructure providers and deployers, including:
- Digital Markets, Competition and Consumer Act (DMCCA)
- Online Safety Act (OSA)
- Data protection law
- Consumer law in technology-enabled services
- AI-related regulation
Our focus is on helping clients navigate regulatory requirements and change in a way that supports innovation and growth.
Related Expertise
We work closely with our Intellectual Property Team where required and also our Data Protection Team on matters involving personal data, including the common issues relating to privacy notices, data processing agreements and international data transfers, ensuring seamless support where required.
Sector Experience
We act for:
- Technology developers and service providers
- Data centre operators and infrastructure providers
- Businesses procuring and implementing technology
- Online platforms and marketplaces
- Professional services and regulated organisations
Why Trethowans?
- Partner-led technology practice
- Strong commercial and sector-focused experience and advice
- Expertise across technology, AI and regulatory requirements
- Experience across both cutting-edge and business-critical infrastructure
Meet the Team
Laura Trapnell – Partner
Laura is a highly experienced technology lawyer with over 25 years’ experience advising businesses on complex technology arrangements. She has particular expertise in software, e-commerce and large-scale technology contracts and regularly works with clients ranging from start-ups to multinational organisations. Laura is recognised in Chambers and Legal 500 for her work in this area.
Louise Thompson – Partner
Louise advises on technology, commercial contracts and the regulatory framework surrounding technology. She has particular expertise in artificial intelligence, data protection compliance and wider digital regulation, supporting clients on complex and evolving legal and commercial issues.
Recent Experience
- Advising on complex cloud, infrastructure and data centre arrangements, including hyperscale hosting and colocation agreements supporting business-critical technology environments
- Advising organisations on the adoption and deployment of AI technologies, including supplier contracts, governance frameworks and navigating regulatory requirements
- Advising on the regulatory implications of AI and technology-enabled services, including the interaction between emerging AI regulation, data protection law and OSA requirements
